MATURE students who juggle work and family life to gain higher education qualifications were applauded at Accrington and Rossendale College's awards evening.

More than 130 students who gained higher level qualif-ications at the college in the last year celebrated their achievements at this week's ceremony.

Speaking to an audience of hundreds, including leaders of Hyndburn, Ribble Valley and Rossendale Councils, the college's assistant principal Sue Taylor said: "We have a large number of students here tonight who have combined study at degree level with full-time work and family commitments - we are proud of you."

She paid tribute to their "outstanding results".

Of the student cohort, 25per cent achieved first class honours degrees, and 49per cent either a first class or 2:1.

And several college students have already started their own businesses following their courses.